The agent of Gremio winger Bitello insists that he has not yet held talks with Arsenal regarding a potential £8 million move to the Premier League giants.
Speculation over the future of this late-blooming attacking midfielder went into overdrive earlier this week. Tuttomercatoweb reported that Arsenal had all-but succeeded in fighting off competition from Serie A clubs, with a £7 million deal potentially just days away.
Bitello’s camp, however, insist that things are not quite as advanced as some have suggested.
When asked about the 23-year-old’s future by Brazilian publication GZH, Maickal Portela – Bitello’s representative – claims that he has not yet been ‘contacted’ by the Emirates Stadium outfit.
What’s more, the Gremio bosses add that there are not yet any ‘official’ offers for a player who’s intelligence, flexibility and perfectly-weighted passes saw him strike up an excellent understanding with veteran Luis Suarez in blue-and-black.
Arsenal are keen on Bitello but deal not close yet
Of course, this could soon change.
The always-reliable Fabrizio Romano, speaking to Caught Offside, backs up GZH’s report. But he does add that Bitello is indeed a player Arsenal are keeping a very close eye upon, with technical director Edu Gaspar weighing up another Brazilian raid after the success of Gabriel Martinelli.
“I’m aware that there have been reports claiming a deal is close for Arsenal to sign Bitello from Gremio this week,” Romano explains. “But I’m not sure things are as advanced as others have suggested.
“My understanding is that Bitello is one of many talents followed and monitored by Arsenal’s South American scouting team. He’s doing very well at Gremio. Let’s see if they will open talks in the next days.
“Rumours have been there for one month. But we’re still waiting for an official move or bid at the moment.”
Bitello has scored seven goals and set up four more this season. He would add depth to an Arsenal side preparing for a return to the Champions League.
Gremio’s head coach Renato Gaucho, meanwhile, has indicated that the club will not stand in his way should the Gunners meet Bitello’s asking price.
“If a very good offer arrives, it is difficult to deny (him),” Gaucho says, via Antena dos no Futebol.
“In this scenario, who has more money screams louder. And Europe has the money. We will consider all the incoming offers.”
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